Frequently asked questions ...

Do they smell?No. In fact your toilet room will smell the same as your hallway. The aerobic process produces no foul odours, and the ventilation system continually extracts air from the room and ensures an odour free environment.

How often do you empty it?CM units - Never! Clivus Multrum systems have a continuous process, so you only remove compost when the chamber gets too full to cope. In most cases this will be a couple of years after you start using it. After that, you might take a bucket or two out once or twice a year and dispose of it in the garden. That's it!​Ecolet units - these vary depending on the model. Some have a tray you empty now and then, others require the chamber to be exchanged when full.

What other maintenance do they need?About every month you should check the fan is working and that the excess fluid drain is not blocked. At the same time you should rake the top of the pile to level any peaks under the pedestal chute/s. All up about 10 minutes.

How much underfloor clearance do I need?With a standard Clivus Multrum unit (like a CM8) about 800mm is usually enough, but with a few tricks it can be much less. CM units have even been installed under slabs in a mini-cellar with exterior access. Talk to us about your project and we can usually make it work for you.

Will the council approve these systems?Yes, in most cases. Our systems are fully accredited with all health and environment authorities, so there is normally not a problem unless there are special circumstances. Councils are a law unto themselves and can approve (or not approve) anything they like. If you come across any resistance from your council talk to us. We have dealt with many councils over 30 years and can guide you through the approval process and even contact council on your behalf to explain the system in terms they are comfortable with. Actually, the compost toilet is not normally the problem - it's more often how you deal with your greywater. Click HERE for information on dealing with greywater.

Can I install the unit myself?Certainly! The Ecolet systems are dead easy to install, and the CM units can be installed in less than a day by two novices with a few standard tools - once the underfloor clearance is available. You may need a plumber to sign off on the installation to satisfy council conditions.

Can I have two pedestals?Yes. All the CM models except the CM2 and CM8 can accommodate two pedestals, although the pedestals need to be in adjacent rooms.

With no water to flush it, doesn't the pedestal get dirty?Not really. The pedestal chute is much larger than the narrow neck of a flushing pedestal, so very little touches the sides. The interior of the pedestal and the chute are both black, so soiling is not conspicuous and easily cleaned.

How do I clean the pedestal?With water and normal detergent. You can splash around as much water and detergent as you like, and even pour water down the pedestal. To disinfect surfaces just swab them with a cloth, but avoid getting disinfectant or bleach in the compost unit as it will kill the bacteria that does all the work.

What can you see in the pedestal?Very little. If you stare down the chute of a CM unit you may see some toilet paper. The chamber is dark and the top of the pile is almost a metre below the pedestal height. Most of the above-floor models have a chamber screen that closes when not in use.

How much power do they use?The CM units only have a 5W x 12V fan, so almost nothing.Some Ecolet models have a 250W thermostatically controlled heating element and a 12V fan.

How quick can I have one?In most cases your unit can be delivered within a week.